Gov. Andrew Cuomo inks book deal with HarperCollins

ALBANY -- A major publisher announced Tuesday it has signed Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo to a book deal, hours after he tried to downplay his presidential prospects.

HarperCollins said Cuomo's book would be a "full and frank look at his public and private life" and "profound moments" of his term in office. It is slated to be published in 2014; terms weren't disclosed.

"He will reveal the story of his history and will share personal and private moments that shaped his life: his father's legacy, his personal trials and tribulations, and his role as a father to his three girls," the publisher said in a news release.

The announcement was seen by analysts as an effort to raise Cuomo's national profile and keep him in the conversation about 2016 presidential contenders.

"No question about it," said Hank Sheinkopf, a Democratic strategist. "If his story is inspiring, it could heighten his national visibility. And the timing is perfect because it's 2013 and we've only got three years to go."

Sheinkopf noted that "pretty much everyone in the last 20 years" who has considered running for president has published a book in advance.

Cuomo's office declined to comment.

In a radio interview Monday, Cuomo said "no" when asked whether he was waiting to see if former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton were to run for president.

The governor went on to add: "There is no truth to the assertion that I'm talking presidential politics and strategy, and what Hillary Clinton should do or shouldn't do . . . As you know, I go to great lengths not to engage in presidential politics."

Though it's very early, Clinton is widely considered to be the 2016 Democratic front-runner at this point. Cuomo and Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley have been among those mentioned as contenders.

Clinton also plans a book for 2014 that will focus on her time as secretary of state.

Two journalists also are doing Cuomo books. New York Post state editor Fred Dicker has a contract with HarperCollins, the publisher said Tuesday. And Vanity Fair contributing editor Michael Schnayerson has a book in the works.